Pesticide Labeling

cide to a crop or site not listed on the label. If
applied to a pest not included on the label, the
applicator is responsible for the results of that
application. Some pesticide labels indicate use
is limited to certain categories of commercial
applicators.
Some directions for use that pesticide users
must obey are contained in documents that are
only referred to on the labeling. Such instructions
include EPA or other government regulations
or requirements concerning the safe use
of the pesticide product. For example, EPA has
adopted or is considering new requirements
concerning: groundwater protection; endangered
species protection; pesticide transportation,
storage, and disposal; and worker protection.
One sentence or paragraph may be the
only notice you will receive that additional use
directions are required in order for the product
to be used in compliance with its labeling. You
must determine whether you are affected, locate
the applicable directions for use, determine
how to comply with the instructions and requirements
in the directions for use, and comply
with those instructions and requirements.
Most documents referred to on the label should
be available at your local county Cooperative
Extension office.
Storage and Disposal Precautions
Every pesticide should be stored and discarded
correctly. The label has directions for storing
the pesticide to prevent contamination of other
products. Storage temperatures are stated on
the label to prevent overheating or freezing.
The label either explains procedures for disposing
empty containers or tells the user to follow
procedures designated by state law. Directions
on how to dispose of waste when rinsing equipment
and containers also are included.
Reading the Label
Before you buy a pesticide, read the label to
determine:
· whether it is the pesticide you need for the
specific crop and pest
· whether the pesticide can be used safely under
the application conditions
Before you mix the pesticide, read the label to
determine:
· what protective equipment you should use
· what the pesticide can be mixed with (compatibility)
· how much pesticide to use
· the mixing procedure
Before you apply the pesticide, read the label to
determine:
· what safety measures you should follow
· whether protective clothing and equipment
are needed
· where the pesticide can be used (livestock,
crops, structures, as examples)
· when to apply the pesticide (including the
waiting period for crops and animals)
· how to apply the pesticide
· whether there are any restrictions for use of
the pesticide
Before you store or dispose of the pesticide or
pesticide container, read the label to determine:
· where and how to store the pesticide
· how to decontaminate and dispose of the
pesticide container
· where to dispose of surplus pesticides
If you have trouble reading or understanding
the pesticide labeling, contact your local
county Cooperative Extension Office or other
knowledgeable person.
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